U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack  announced $500 million in grants available to increase American-made fertilizer production to spur competition and combat price hikes on U.S. farmers caused by the war in Ukraine. 

“USDA is creating a resilient, secure and sustainable economy, and this support to provide domestic, independent choices for fertilizer supplies is part of that effort,” Vilsack said. “USDA believes in the growth of innovative, local businesses owned and shared by people who can best serve their own unique community’s needs, fill gaps, and build opportunities. Recent supply chain disruptions have shown just how critical it is to invest in the agricultural supply chain here at home.” 

The funds are being made available through the Commodity Credit Corporation. 

The Fertilizer Production Expansion Program is part of a whole-of-government effort to promote competition in agricultural markets. 

Grants will be used to support independent, innovative and sustainable American fertilizer production to supply American farmers. 

Funds also will expand the manufacturing and processing of fertilizer and nutrient alternatives in the U.S. and its territories. 

The maximum award is $100 million. The minimum award is $1 million. The grant term is five years. 

The Department will begin accepting applications in the coming days via ww.grants.gov.